It’s been a dramatic week for the Philadelphia 76ers.
Ahead of Wednesday’s action against the Washington Wizards, the star center Joel Embiid found out that he was ruled out the same way the fans did–through the media.
Although Embiid suggested the Sixers were playing an April Fool’s prank with his status, the center found out he was actually out. He took to social media to make it clear that it was the team’s decision, and not his.
Embiid returned to the court on Friday night to face the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The star center checked in for 34 minutes. He scored 19 points, while adding 13 rebounds, seven assists, and three blocks to his line. The Sixers defeated the Timberwolves 115-103.
After the game, Embiid opened up about his situation from earlier in the week, making it clear that he was frustrated with the team’s decision.
Nick Nurse responded ahead of Saturday’s game against the Detroit Pistons.
What Did Nick Nurse Say About Joel Embiid’s Rant?
“We handle it by keeping things basketball-related,” Nurse told reporters on Saturday.
“He was at shoot-around yesterday, and he was excellent in the game yesterday. He was really a great teammate and focused and all that stuff yesterday. So, we just try to keep it all basketball focused.”
When the follow-up question asked if it was difficult to keep Embiid focused when he is this frustrated, Nurse responded with a similar answer.
“No, I think last night was one of his best games of the year on both sides of the ball,” he finished.
Joel Embiid missed the Sixers’ Saturday night action against the Pistons due to oblique injury management and an illness. Considering he hasn’t played in a back-to-back set in years, Embiid’s absence was far from a surprise.
After the Sixers’ 116-93 loss against the Pistons, they’ll look ahead to their Monday night action against the San Antonio Spurs. That will be the next matchup that Embiid could compete in.
76ers Coach Nick Nurse Reacts to Joel Embiid’s Strong Message